Dentures

Dentures are suitable for people who have lost some or all of their natural teeth due to decay, injury, or other factors. They are also a good option for people unable to undergo other dental procedures, such as dental implants or bridges, due to medical conditions or financial constraints. 

However, only some are good candidates for dentures. People with severe gum disease may need to treat their gums before dentures can be fitted.

Benefits of Dentures

There are several benefits to using dentures as a dental solution.

• restore a person's smile, which can improve their self-confidence and overall quality of life
• improve a person's ability to eat and speak, which can have a positive impact on their physical health and social interactions
• prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position, which can lead to further dental problems

Types of Dentures

Full Dentures

Full or complete dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace all teeth in a patient's upper or lower jaw. They are typically made of acrylic or other materials and are custom-made to fit the patient's mouth. Full dentures are used when a patient has lost all their teeth or when the remaining teeth are in poor condition and cannot be saved.

A full denture may be:

• Conventional: Made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually for 4 to 6 weeks. During this time, the patient will be without any teeth.
• Immediate: Made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. 

Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made. Immediate dentures are the go-to solution for patients who do not want to appear in public without teeth after removing the damaged teeth.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are also removable dental appliances used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are typically made of a metal framework that attaches to the remaining teeth in the mouth and supports the replacement teeth. Partial dentures can replace missing teeth in the upper or lower jaw and can be made of acrylic or other materials.

Flexible Dentures

These cling to the gums and don’t need metal clasps or adhesives to stay in place. They are a kind of partial denture made of a slightly different material. The dentist inserts temporary dentures that allow patients to experience increased comfort and confidence while eating, chewing, and smiling.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Dental implants support implant-retained dentures. Dental implants are small metal posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone. The dentures are then attached to the implants, providing a more secure and stable fit. 

If your natural teeth or dentures stop you from enjoying the chewy foods you love, implant retained dentures may be a good option. The treatment involves securing the full denture onto the implant abutments inside the gum.

Alternative Options to Dentures

While dentures are a popular dental solution for missing teeth, they are not the only option available. Some alternative options to dentures include:

• Dental Implants: Permanent solution for missing teeth. They are small metal posts surgically placed in the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to provide a stable base for a crown or bridge.
• Dental Bridges: Replace one or more missing teeth. They are made up of a false tooth that is attached to two dental crowns. The crowns are attached to the remaining natural teeth on either side of the gap.
• Dental Crowns: Restore damaged or broken teeth. Custom-made caps are placed over the damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Dental crowns can also be used to anchor a dental bridge in place.
• Dental Veneers: Thin, custom-made shells placed over the teeth' front surface to improve their appearance. They can be used to treat a range of dental problems, including chipped, stained, or misaligned teeth.

What to Do Before Getting Dentures?

Firstly, it is important to have a thorough dental check-up to ensure that your remaining teeth and gums are healthy. If any decay or gum disease is present, it may need to be treated before the denture procedure can be performed. 

Secondly, it is a good idea to discuss your options with your dentist, including the type of denture best for your needs and budget. 

Finally, it is important to follow any pre-operative instructions given by your dentist, such as avoiding eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before the procedure.

How Are Dentures Made?

The denture development process takes a few weeks and typically involves several steps, including:

• Impression Taking: The dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a model of your teeth and gums. This model will create a custom-made denture that fits your mouth comfortably and securely.
• Wax Try-In: The dentist will create a wax model of the denture and have you try it to check the fit and bite. Any necessary adjustments will be made at this time.
• Final Fitting: Once the denture has been fabricated, the dentist will have you try it to ensure it fits properly and feels comfortable. Any final adjustments will be made at this time.
• Post-Operative Instructions: The dentist will provide instructions on how to care for your denture, including how to clean it and when to wear it.

What to Expect After Getting Dentures?

After getting dentures, it is normal to experience increased saliva flow, soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulties. However, this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures. 

Follow your dentist's post-operative instructions, including wearing the denture as directed and avoiding hard or sticky foods. Over time, your mouth will adjust to the denture, and it should feel comfortable and natural.

How Long Can Dentures Last?

With proper care, dentures can last many years and provide a comfortable and effective solution for missing teeth, but they may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

How to Care for Dentures?

Caring for dentures is important to ensure they remain in good condition and continue to fit comfortably. Here are some tips for caring for dentures:

• Clean dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and denture cleaner. Do not use regular toothpaste or toothbrush, as they can be too abrasive and damage the dentures.
• When cleaning or handling dentures, be careful not to drop them, as they can break easily. Hold them over a towel or a sink full of water to prevent damage if they slip from your hands.
• Dentures should be soaked overnight in water or a denture-cleaning solution. This helps to remove any bacteria or plaque buildup.
• After eating, rinse your dentures with water to remove any food particles that may have become lodged between your dentures and gums.
• Brush your gums and tongue with a soft-bristled brush daily to stimulate circulation and prevent plaque buildup.
• Regular dental checkups are important for anyone with dentures. Your dentist will examine your dentures for wear and ensure they fit properly.

Risks of Getting Dentures

As with any dental procedure, there are risks associated with getting dentures. Some of the most common risks include:

• Discomfort or soreness in the gums
• Difficulty eating or speaking until the mouth adjusts to the denture
• Irritation or infection of the gums or mouth
• Changes in the fit of the denture over time
• Allergic reactions to the materials used to make the denture